“Our economy will not grow unless our citizens and business can keep more money to spend and invest as fits their needs,” George said in a statement announcing his pledge. George challenged other candidates to make a similar promise to taxpayers.

The Annapolis jewelry store owner is a two-term delegate and father of six hoping to secure the Republican nomination. If successful, his bid for the governor's mansion would be unprecedented - no other politician has jumped directly from the House of Delegates to the govenor's office.

George is one of two declared Republicans in the race to succeed term-limited Gov. Martin O'Malley, a Democrat. Harford County Executive David Craig is also running for the Republican nomination.

Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown is the only Democrat who has declared his candidacy.

The 2014 campaign for Maryland governor is well under way, with contested primary races in both the Democratic and Republican parties. The primary election is June 24. Candidates include three Democrats and four Republicans. -- Michael Dresser

Since its founding in 1797, Baltimore has had 57 mayors. Here are some facts about those mayors, along with some of their major accomplishments. --Frederick N. Rasmussen Also see: Maryland governors through the years

Eight Maryland lobbyists got more than $1 million in billing compensation, as companies spent heavily trying to promote their agendas in Annapolis. Lobbyists have to report their activities, and a listing is generated each time an advocate picks up an active client. In this gallery, you can see...

Companies and organizations spent big money on lobbyists last year, looking for help in convincing the state government to act in their interests. Here are some of the biggest spenders, according to a Maryland State Ethics Commission report covering the period between Nov. 1, 2010 and Oct. 31,...